Darline Graham Nordone has officially become the first woman to represent South Carolina in the U.S. Senate. She was sworn into office on July 14 at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., by Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley, the president pro tempore of the Senate. Her entry into the chamber was facilitated by an escort from South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott and Alabama Sen. Katie Britt.
The 64-year-old was appointed to the position by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster just one day prior to her swearing-in. She assumes the seat formerly held by her brother, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham, who passed away unexpectedly on July 11 at the age of 71 due to a life-threatening condition caused by a tear in his aorta. President Donald Trump had publicly advocated for her appointment via a Truth Social post.
Graham Nordone will serve in the Senate until January 3, 2027, at which point the winner of the upcoming November election will take office. Although she lacks previous political experience, having spent the majority of her career in workforce development and disability services, she expressed confidence in her ability to perform the duties of the office with the support of her brother's staff and Senate colleagues. She is a married mother of two adult children and a grandmother.
Reflecting on her new role, Graham Nordone stated on July 13 that she intends to continue the work of her late brother, whom she praised as an exceptional leader. She noted that it is a privilege to carry forward his efforts on behalf of both South Carolina and the United States, promising to work diligently to support the president over the coming months. Her presence in the Senate provides a crucial boost to the Republican majority, which currently holds a thin margin and has faced challenges in advancing some of the administration's key priorities.
It remains uncertain whether Graham Nordone will run for the seat in the upcoming election. Before his death, Lindsey Graham had been seeking a fifth term, having defeated primary challenger Mark Lynch and four others in June. He was expected to face Democratic nominee Annie Andrews, a pediatrician, in the general election. With the seat now vacant, South Carolina Republicans are set to hold a special primary on August 11 to determine a new nominee. Potential candidates mentioned include Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, Rep. Nancy Mace, Rep. Russell Fry, former Rep. Trey Gowdy, and Rep. William Timmons.
